Android Hacks that don’t need Rooting

While rooting does open up a world of new possibilities, there are plenty of cool Android hacks that don’t actually require it. Also, rooting an Android device usually isn’t as simple as installing and running an app. It’s possible for rooting procedures to go wrong, and sometimes this results in a “bricked” device that is no longer usable. Here are few of many cool hacks you can do on your Android device without rooting it.

1. Use IFTTT to Automate your Settings

Although Tasker remains the most powerful option available–especially for users with programming experience– IFTTT offers many similar functions in a much more user-friendly package. Since IFTTT links up to so many different “channels” and services, your imagination is your only limit when it comes to concocting creative recipes. Make an account and IFTTT will recommend some pre-configured recipes for you. Yes, you don’t need root access.

2. Changeyour DPI

DPI, or dots per inch are what decide the amount of information you can see on your screen at a given time. The more dots per inch, the more content can be fit onto the screen, but that also means everything will be smaller. Some phones do offer tools for changing DPI, though many do not.

While it’s easy enough to change your display’s DPI if you’re rooted, the reality is that you can do it even without root. First, install DPI checker from the Google Play Store and check what the default DPI for your device is. It would be a good idea to not travel much farther from the default value.

How to change the DPI

4. To change the DPI Launch ADB command prompt window and use the following command:

adb shell wm density “DPI” adb reboot

Note: where “DPI” is listed, replace with the value you’d like to use. A lower DPI means more information displayed on screen.

5. Your device will automatically restart and you should see the change in place. If for any reason you want to reset the DPI back to the original, go back to ADB and type:

adb shell wm size resetadb reboot

3. Flashing custom ROMs and Kernels

Yes, flashing custom ROMs does not require you to have a rooted Android device. Same is the case with custom kernels. All you need to flash a ROM or kernel is a supported ROM or kernel and a custom recovery such as TWRP. You don’t even need root to install a custom recovery. To flash a ROM or kernel, simply head to the TWRP recovery, select Install select the ROM/kernel and done.

4. Installing Linux on your Android

Another one! You don’t need to root your Android device to run Linux. All it
needs is an old app called Debian noroot. You can download it for free, then open from your Android home screen like any other app. Once you’ve opened it, you can download and install programs games for Debian just like you would any other version of Linux.

5. Create Custom Widgets

If you want to make your home screen really reflective of your own taste and personality, try downloading an app like Beautiful Widgets to give your phone a more personal touch. Rooting isn’t necessary!

6. Record voice calls

Many Android call recorder apps require you to root your phone, but there are several that don’t. Automatic Call Recorder is a free, easy-to-use app, which lets you set up voice recording on your device. Your manufacturer may have blocked call recording on your phone, but Automatic Call Recorder has several options to work around these blocks.